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Age of Recognition

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Summary

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The age of recognition is when someone realizes that they or their child might have a neurodivergent condition like autism or ADHD. It may occur to anyone at any age, from infancy to old age. It is important to recognize these differences so that people can get the help they need, like therapy or accommodations at school or work. Getting support and understanding is always possible and can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

Table of Contents

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Frequently Asked Question

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Can the age of recognition vary from person to person?

Yes, the age of recognition can vary widely depending on the individual and the condition. Some neurodivergent traits may be recognized in infancy or early childhood, while in other cases, it may not be recognized until adolescence or adulthood.

What factors can influence the age of recognition?

Factors such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status can impact the age of recognition. Individuals from marginalized communities may face additional barriers to recognition and diagnosis due to systemic bias and lack of access to resources.

Can the age of recognition change over time?

Yes, the age of recognition can change depending on the individual and their circumstances. Some neurodivergent traits may be evident from infancy or early childhood, while others may not be recognized until adolescence or adulthood.

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Scientific Definition

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The age of recognition is a term used to describe the age at which an individual is typically identified as having a neurodivergent condition, such as autism or ADHD. This age can vary widely depending on the individual and the condition. In some cases, neurodivergent traits may be recognized in infancy or early childhood, while others may not be recognized until adolescence or adulthood. The age of recognition is important because it affects access to support, services, and accommodations that can improve the quality of life for neurodivergent individuals. Early recognition and intervention can lead to better outcomes, but seeking support and understanding is never too late.

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Real World Example of Age of Recognition

Meet Susie, a bright and curious seven-year-old who has always differed slightly from her peers. Susie loves to line up her toys in a precise order, struggles with making friends, and has difficulty sitting still in class. Susie’s parents have noticed these differences but attributed them to her quirky personality. However, as Susie starts to struggle more in school, they begin to wonder if there may be something more going on.

  • Susie’s parents notice that she struggles in school and gets frustrated with homework. They try to help her but notice that she has trouble focusing and following instructions.
  • Susie’s teacher raises concerns about her behavior in class, such as fidgeting, interrupting, and not following social cues. The teacher suggests that Susie may have ADHD and recommends that her parents seek an evaluation.
  • Susie’s parents are initially hesitant, but they take the teacher’s advice and bring Susie to a specialist. The specialist thoroughly evaluates and diagnoses Susie with ADHD and mild autism.
  • With this information, Susie’s parents can access resources and accommodations to support her in school. They work with her teacher to create a behavior plan and get her extra help with homework. They also connect with a local support group for families of children with autism and ADHD.
  • With the right support, Susie thrives in school and gains self-confidence. She discovers that she has a talent for art and starts to make friends with other kids who share her interests. Susie’s parents are grateful for the Age of Recognition, which allowed them to understand their daughter’s unique strengths and challenges and provide her with the help she needed to succeed.

This story demonstrates how the age of recognition can make a huge difference in the lives of neurodivergent individuals and their families. By understanding the age of recognition and seeking evaluation and support when necessary, parents and educators can help children with special needs thrive. Goally, a tablet that offers fun apps for kids, can help support kids with conditions like ADHD and autism by providing digital visual schedules, AAC, and gamified learning.

How Does Age of Recognition Work?

The age of recognition varies based on the person and their situation. Here’s how it can happen:

  1. Early recognition: Some neurodivergent traits show up in infancy or early childhood. Parents, caregivers, or healthcare providers may notice differences in language development or repetitive behaviors and seek a diagnosis.
  2. Late recognition: In some cases, neurodivergent traits may not be obvious, and individuals are diagnosed later in life. For instance, an adult struggling with social interactions or executive function may attribute it to personal shortcomings until a life event prompts them to seek help.
  3. Intersectionality: Factors like race, gender, and socioeconomic status can influence the Age of Recognition. Marginalized communities may face additional barriers to diagnosis due to biases and limited resources.

Examples of the age of recognition in action:

  • A parent seeks an evaluation for autism when their toddler shows no response to their name or eye contact.
  • A high school student struggling with attention and organization discovers they may have ADHD after a teacher or counselor suggests it.
  • Gender-based discrimination delays an autism diagnosis for a non-binary person with sensory sensitivities and social anxiety until their mid-twenties.
  • An older adult receives a neurodegenerative condition diagnosis while seeking evaluation for memory loss.

Recognizing neurodivergent traits early is crucial for individuals and their families to understand and access the necessary support and resources.

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